Police have released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to after a war memorial was vandalised at St Alban's Church on Bewsey Street in the Bewsey and Whitecross area of Warrington. The damage was discovered at 9.23am on Sunday, November 1 by a member of the congregation.
Damage timeline and appeal
Cheshire Police said there have been several incidents in the area and officers believe the memorial could have been damaged between 6pm and 10pm on Friday, October 30. Officers are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour around the church or war memorial during this time.
As part of the investigation, the force has released a CCTV image of a man they'd like to speak to about the incident. Anyone who recognises him is urged to contact the police.
'Completely unacceptable behaviour'
Chief Inspector Joseph McNally from the Warrington local policing unit said: "The vandalism of a war memorial is particularly upsetting as these sites exist to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country."
"This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and has a significant impact on those who use and support the church, as well as the wider community. Places of worship should be safe and welcoming environments, and we are committed to identifying those responsible for this incident."
"We believe the damage occurred during the evening hours and I would particularly urge anyone who was in the vicinity of St Alban's Church between 6pm and 10pm over the weekend to come forward if they saw anything suspicious."
"We are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area that could help identify those involved."
"We understand the concern incidents such as this can cause within the community, and we are working closely with local partners and church representatives as part of our investigation."
How to provide information
Anyone with information can contact Cheshire Police on 101 or via the website, quoting IML 2449856. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
